The Favourite

Despite having a pretty similar relationship with historical fact as some of the recent Dr Who episodes, this is a great piece of cinema – atmospherically lit, superbly soundtracked, beautifully shot and wonderfully acted by its three leads. What Olivia Colman can’t convey with the merest flicker of a facial muscle isn’t worth knowing about. I’ve seen it described as a ‘comedy drama’, but laughs are hard-earned, and the overall mood is of quiet desperation on the parts of all of the protagonists.
The odd modern affectation in the language aside, this is a thoroughly absorbing work which I’m sure will be handed a bucket load of awards before the season’s out, as well as upping the traffic on Queen Anne’s Wikipedia page to hitherto unseen levels.

Comments

We’ve just got back from seeing this. It had its moments and looked fabulous but we both felt it lacked a bit plot wise or maybe ending wise? Points deducted for occasional annoying fish eye lens. I also noticed slightly modern language and goodness, liberal use of the last taboo swear word! “Clutches pearls.”
My wife rated it three out of five. I’d be inclined to agree.

Totally agree DaveBP, the director has to take some blame for using some techniques which take away from the film not add to it. The fish eye lens was one aspects, shooting from the ground up was another. A sad example of a Director destroying some of the value of his actors and script. Much as I love Olivia Colman, I did not think she was the best actress in it, I gave that to Emma Stone. Had so looked forward to this but came away underwhelmed

I loved it. Didn’t mind the use of strange angles/lenses, which I think added to the claustrophobic atmosphere of the court, and the Alice in Wonderland unpredictability of the Queen’s whims. All three leads were excellent, but I fully expect Olivia Coleman to do particularly well come awards season.

I really enjoyed it although FPO hated it. All three leads were fantastic I thought and I fully expect all three to feature in nominations various over the next few months.
An intersting article on the BBC now about historical accuracy and the meaning behind the rabbits! Certainly explains the ending.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46783180